Google Loon Balloon FL640 tracking MEL SYD

[Captain Garmin]

For those who monitor ADSB traffic. 'HBAL287' is in the Geelong area tracking approximately MEL to SYD via the Y59 jet route at 30 knots FL640.

Five years into the project, the balloons are being launched in volume and regularly last over 100 days at altitude. Sri Lanka and Indonesia have committed to use them for non metro internet coverage.

I expect ATC to provide traffic separation if one makes an unplanned descent. :}

Google Loon update (http://cleanleap.com/update-googles-project-loon)

CG

[compressor stall]

How do I log in?

[Capt Fathom]

Flightradar24.

Just to the north of MEL.

https://www.flightradar24.com/HBAL287/9b057f2

[Paul O'Rourke]

I picked up two positions within 13 nm NW of YWBL last Friday 6/5/16, roughly west east track. The step ascent in the graphic results in a minor deviation in track to the north. Each level represents 1000'. The second image highlights the level in white with altitude and distance from me. The first paint was at Portland. Great graphic.

http://i692.photobucket.com/albums/vv283/PaulO-001/image.jpeg

http://i692.photobucket.com/albums/vv283/PaulO-001/image_1.jpeg

I wonder what the risk assessment is for built up areas in the event of deflation?